[SCENE] Gumshoe and Maggey in "Dinner Date"
Takes place Sunday, May 20th, 2018.
Maggey: *Sunday evening finally arrives and even though Maggey has had this evening with Gumshoe planned out for the last few days, she can't help but smooth down her skirt nervously every few moments as she bustles around her apartment. With Bear following at her feet, she peeks into her kitchen, just to make sure that dinner is completely ready for when her guest arrives. Smiling a bit easier, Maggey...
Maggey:...moves back into her living room, sitting down on her sofa while she waits. Bear sets his head in her lap and looks up at her, smiling. She reaches down to scratch him behind his ears.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe coughs into his fist, examining his reflection in the grimey mirror surface of the elevator... he's not dressed *much* better than usual, but he's got a new black tie, his shirt has been (somehow) freshly pressed, and it looks like he's washed his trademark trenchcoat once or twice... he's carrying a slightly limp bouquet of flowers that look rather second-hand.
Gumshoe: Stepping out of the elevator, he swallows, runs a hand through his hair again, and then raps on Maggey's door with thick, calloused knuckles*
Maggey: *Hearing the knocking at the door, Maggey shoots up off the couch as Bear rushes over to the door, his tail wagging wildly at the prospect of a new visitor. Smoothing down her white blouse one more time, she smiles wide before walking over to the door and opening it.*
Gumshoe: *she opens the door; and all Gumshoe can think is that she looks real pretty all dressed up like that, and he blushes a bit, stammering over his words* H-hey there, pa--Maggey! These are... *he thrusts the flowers out in her general direction* These are for you! You look... you look real great!
Maggey: Hello Detective Gumshoe! *Taking the limp flowers, she smiles even wider.* WOW! Flowers for me, sir? That's so nice of you! Please come right on in! *She takes a few steps backwards to move Bear out of the way to allow the larger man through the door.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe steps through the door, petting Bear on the head and scratching behind his ears as he looks around, giving a low whistle* Wow, you really cleaned up the place! And... hey, that smells great! *he says, inhaling deeply--and he's telling the truth, for the aroma wafting out of the kitchen is awfully tantalizing*
Maggey: *Closing the door behind them, Maggey moves straight to the kitchen to look for a vase to throw the flowers into.* Well thanks, sir! I worked really hard at making a wonderful dinner tonight! *Spotting a cup, she grabs it and after filling it partially with water, she drops the flowers in, looking both grateful and impressed.* There! *Setting the cup on her kitchen counter, she takes a...
Maggey: …step back, admiring them.* What beautiful flowers! They really brighten up the room. *She turns to him.* Don't you think, sir?
Gumshoe: Oh yeah! They--they look great! You look great, pal! ...did I say that already? *he reaches up to scratch at his head, looking a bit sheepish* But--but the flowers look really swell!
Maggey: *Smiles.* You look really good too, sir! Is that a new coat? Oh! *Her eyes widen suddenly.* I forgot to ask for your coat! I'm so sorry, Detective!
Gumshoe: *he turns slightly red* Nah, it's the same old coat--I just had it cleaned! *he shakes his head* N-nah, it's fine! You don't have to take the coat! But... um, if you want, sure! You can take it! But it's no big deal, really!
Maggey: Whatever you want to do, sir! It's all up to you!
Gumshoe: *after a moment's consideration, he shrugs off the coat, throws it over his arm, and hands it to her proudly--since she sounded so *insistent* really...* Here.. here ya go!
Maggey: *Taking the coat, Maggey straightens up and salutes Gumshoe quickly before moving to the closet next to the front door. Opening the door and pulling out a stray clothes hanger, she continues to smile.* Would you like to take a seat at the table, sir? I'll be sure to grab the food for us in just a second! *Successfully hanging the heavy jacket in the closet, she shuts the door and wanders back...
Maggey:...into the kitchen.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe can't help but go a bit red in the face as Maggey scurries around, because she's so damn cute and.. well, she's obviously trying so hard* Sure! I'll just... I'll take a seat down here! *he takes a big whiff of the tantalizing food, still kind of finding it hard to comprehend that she's going through this all for him--and he sits down at the table, waiting for her*
Maggey: *After Gumshoe sits down, Maggey grabs the plate of baked potatoes in one hand and the plate of steaks in the other. She moves towards the table slowly, but steadily, her days working at Tres Bien and The Rusty Gust really improving her balance. She makes it to the table with the plates and food all in one piece, and after setting them down in the empty middle of the table, she takes a seat.*
Maggey: There we go, sir! I hope you enjoy it! I worked extra hard on making this the best dinner ever!
Gumshoe: *For a second, Gumshoe almost looks like he's going to burst into tears. The food smells so good and she just looks so happy and proud of herself, having made such a delicious-looking dinner* It... w-wow Maggey... That looks great, pal!
Maggey: *She moves the plate of steaks an inch closer to him.* Please, sir! Go ahead and dig in! *She waits eagerly, watching him.*
Gumshoe: *he pauses, not wanting to ruin the dinner by being sloppy--though it'll probably happen anyway--but he's not sure whether the napkin goes in his lap or tucked into his shirt. After a few moments of consideration, he decides to tuck it into his shirt instead. After all, his pants are dark; they're harder to notice stains on! However, before digging in, he hesitates* Nah, pal... y-you first!
I mean, you made it and all...
Maggey: But I made it for you, sir! I insist! *Still smiling, she sets her open napkin on her lap, waiting for him.*
Gumshoe: Oh! Well, um...! *at that, Gumshoe tries to caaaarefuly cut a piece of steak without spraying juice all over himself, and he caaaaaarefully spears it with a fork and puts it into his mouth--It's absolutely delicious... though maybe a bit overcooked but he can overlook it, because even he can tell it was made with tender care!*
Gumshoe: W...wow! This is... this is delicious...!!
Maggey: *Practically beaming from joy, Maggey giggles before reaching for the open bottle of wine.* Here! Let me pour you some, sir! The cashier at the store told me this was a really good brand! I’ve never had wine this nice before!
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe's trying his best not to openly gape--the last time he's even seen wine with that fancy a label was at Mr. Edgeworth's house, and even then he just stuck to the beer* Sure! Go right ahead...! I'd love some! *he's too afraid to even think about how much it cost*
Maggey: *Maggey stays silent for a moment, concentrating on not spilling the expensive wine as she pours it into Gumshoe's glass. A few small drops spill onto the table, but it is mostly a success, which makes the woman practically beam as she glances up to him.*
Gumshoe: *he looks at her with an uncontrollable goofy grin on his face, waiting for her to pour herself a glass too!*
Maggey: *She continues holding onto the bottle and until she finally realizes that she still hasn't poured a glass for herself. Letting out a small laugh, she pours a glass for herself (this time not spilling anything) before she sets the bottle back onto the table. She reaches for her glass and holds it up towards Gumshoe. She smiles.* Cheers?
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe raises his glass, almost spilling it--but not!--and then keeps grinning at her, dumbstruck* Cheers, pal--I mean, Maggey!
Maggey: Cheers, sir! *She moves her glass forward carefully, tapping Gumshoe's before she takes a small sip of the wine. Her eyes widen at the taste- it is very sweet- but she decides that the aftertaste is more than enjoyable enough as she takes another drink.* Mmm. *She sets her glass down on the table.* That's really good!
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe clinks his glass against hers before sipping it himself, and he only spills a single drop as he drinks, so he's pretty pleased about that! She wasn't mistaken, either--this wine is great stuff, even for someone who doesn't usually drink it!* No kiddin'! That's pretty darn good wine!
Maggey: *Smiles.* I'm glad I picked out the right kind, sir! I never buy wine so I really wasn't sure, but if we ever have dinner together again I'll try to get the same kind again!
Gumshoe: Aw no, you don't have to do that, pal! Really! *he scratches at his head, looking sheepish* I mean, if it's as expensive as you said...! I'd just be fine with--well, you don't have to get anything at all for me! Really, I mean it!
Maggey: *Sliding the plate of baked potatoes over to him, she continues to smile.* We'll see then, sir! *She waits for him to take the plate before she takes the one full of steaks, stabbing at one of the pieces of meat with her fork.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe spears a whole baked potato with his fork before remembering where he is, and then tries to cut it open neatly--it's warm, and buttery, and well maybe the skin is a bit crispy but he likes it like that! It's just as good as the steak, and he can't believe that she went to all this trouble just for him*
Maggey: *After Gumshoe takes one, Maggey grabs a potato, setting it on her plate next to the steak. She picks up her knife before she pauses for a second. Where were her manners? Taking her napkin, she sets it politely onto her lap, before she digs into her food eagerly.*
Gumshoe: *They eat, and Gumshoe keeps sneaking quick glances up at Maggey while he does--there's just something so cute about how she cuts her steak, he can't help it!--but he can't quite bring himself to say anything for a good long while... he swallows another glass of wine, finally getting up the nerve* So! Uh... how was your day...!
Maggey: *She swallows her last piece of steak before looking up to her guest. She pauses, having to actually think about her day.* I think it was alright, sir. I slept in a bit after working late at the bar last night and then took Bear for a nice, long walk around the neighborhood. Then I went out to buy groceries and then I made dinner! *Though it seems like a very plain, even boring day, the smile...
Maggey:...never leaves her face.* It was a really good day, sir!
Gumshoe: Sounds like fun! *he says with complete and total honesty* Bear looks like he's doing real good, pal! Does he still pull you off your feet sometimes?
Maggey: *Maggey taps Bear, who is laying on the floor next to her, with her foot.* Sometimes, but he really is getting better! Yesterday he saw a cat, sir, and he only pulled me for about two blocks! It's a real improvement! *Bear glances up to her, sees that she isn't giving him steak, and then goes back to snoozing.* What about you, sir? How was your day?
Gumshoe: *he pauses in thought* Well, uh...! I didn't really do much, so... I just got up, got dressed, and... had lunch! *he winces a bit* It ain't all that exciting, really. But now I'm here with you! So it's been a great day for me!
Maggey: *Setting down her knife and fork on her empty plate, she reaches for the wine glass again. After taking a much larger drink than before, she nods.* But that is only because you have a day off! I mean, being a detective is one of the coolest and most exciting professions ever! Don't you think so, sir?
Gumshoe: Oh yeah, it's great! *Gumshoe can't help but swell with pride; he really does love what he does* You're solving crimes and tracking down bad guys all day--there's really no more rewarding job in the world, pal! Well, sometimes when you screw it up it can be a bit of a bummer, but... I wouldn't trade it for the world, anyway!
Maggey: *She holds her glass in one hand, saluting him with the other.* I miss being on the force with you, sir! It was always so great!
Gumshoe: Well... well yeah, that was great! *he turns a bit red* Y'know, if you ever wanted to get back on the force, I'm sure they'd let you... they'd let you go through training again if you wanted! Really, I bet they would!
Maggey: *Her smile falters slightly as her eyes widen.* R-Really, sir? But I was fired... *A frown crosses her face, but she continues to look Gumshoe straight in the eyes.*
Gumshoe: *his shoulders slump a bit; Gumshoe is very aware that she probably still feels awful about these events* Well... they fired you because they thought that you. Well, that you had... b-but you were found innocent, so there wouldn't be a problem...!
Maggey: *As she looks down to her empty plate, Maggey is silent for a few long moments, which is more quiet than anyone else has ever seen her. She appears to be thinking very deeply about the chance of getting her badge back. It is an exciting prospect and one that she would, in any other part of her life, be very eager to persue. Now, however...*
Maggey: That's...That sounds great, Detective Gumshoe, but...I don't know if I could.
Gumshoe: *He's filled with a growing sense of horror at her sudden quiet, a feeling that he's said and done something terrible, but he doesn't know what he could say to make it better--if, in fact, he could say anything at all* Er... I-I'm sure you could! You'd be great! You'd be really fantastic...!
Maggey: No! *She blurts out suddenly, before a small flush appears on her cheeks.* I mean, I could, sir, but I can't. I can't leave Mr. Marshall all alone...
Gumshoe: Oh! R-right! I gotcha! *Gumshoe nods, feeling a little sigh of relief--he'd forgotten about the bar and Jake for a moment, and he hadn't screwed it up--she was just being herself! Loyal, sweet, caring Maggey... that was why!* That's... that's really nice of you, pal!
Maggey: *There is a hint of her regular smile as she nods eagerly.* Of course, sir! I couldn't just leave him behind after everything he's done for me! You wouldn't believe how much he taught me and how kind he is whenever my bad luck gets in the way! *She smiles.* And someone has to stay around and watch out for him too, sir!
Gumshoe: *he smiles at her again, less embarrassed than his usual bashful grin* Right! You gotta... you gotta make sure ol' Marshall's doing good for himself! He's relying on you, y'know!
Maggey: Alright, sir! *Salutes him again, suddenly feeling full of her usual never-ending supply of energy.* And you have to keep catching the bad guys!
Gumshoe: Of course! I'll do my best and you do yours!
Maggey: *Beaming, she takes her glass and takes a final drink, draining her second glass of wine.* That was the best dinner I've had in a long time, sir. Thank you for joining me. Did you get enough?
Gumshoe: N-no, thank you! You're the one who made it! It was real delicious, lemme tell you that! *Gumshoe rubs his stomach appreciatively--for the first time in a very long while that he can remember, he actually feels full* That was... it was really great! *he's working on his third glass, and there's still half a bottle left over* I can, uh, help with the dishes if you want!
Maggey: *She shakes her head.* That's alright, sir. I'll just save them for later. Would you like to move to the living room?
Gumshoe: Oh, uh, okay! That'd be fine! If you're sure, pal!
Maggey: *Maggey stands up, nearly tripping over the large dog at her feet, but she manages to catch herself first. Then, stepping over Bear, she grins wide at Gumshoe. Though she hasn't had too much of the wine, she is already feeling the affects.* This way, sir!
Gumshoe: *he's had a bit more, and he's bigger, but he's starting to feel it a bit too as he gets up, still holding his latest glass, and follows her into the living room* Boy, that was a great dinner! You really learned how to cook at that saloon of yours!
Maggey: *She giggles before plopping down onto her small couch.* We actually have a cook that does all of that for us. I just serve the customers and keep things clean!
Gumshoe: *he sits down on the couch beside her, putting his glass down on a handy nearby table* Really? Wow, that's fancy! I bet Marshall's really glad to have you around!
Maggey: I sure hope so! *She twists her torso to look him fully in the face, smiling. She prefers to speak to people face-to-face.* I really enjoy it there.
Gumshoe: Well... like, cowboy people! Like Marshall!
Maggey: Oh! Cowboys? *She smiles again.* We get them all the time! ...Well, we have two of them coming in almost every night.
Gumshoe: *He blinks* Really? What are they like?
Maggey: Well, they are pretty noisy and usually leave a pretty big mess, but they are always really polite and order a lot! Mr. Marshall loves customers who order a lot!
Gumshoe: Well, if they pay for it, I would too, if I were him! It just makes sense, y'know?
Maggey: *Nods.* Of course, sir. You should really come in and visit sometime! Mr. Marshall and I would love to have you!
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe looks sheepish again, reaching up to scratch right above his ear* W-well, I dunno if I could actually afford it, pal! It's probably expensive....!
Maggey: I'd buy you something, sir! I would love to. *She suddenly looks very excited.* Oh! And you could try some of Mr. Marshall's famous chili!
Gumshoe: Hey, chili? I love chili! I used to eat it all the time in school at the cafeteria! I loved spicy food so much that they started to call me "Red-Hot Dick," pal! *he chuckles in nostalgia* Is it spicy?
Maggey: Spicy? *She leans in a little closer, looking up at him, grinning* The spiciest, sir.
Gumshoe: *he raises an eyebrow, chuckling* Oho ho ho?! Really? Well I'll just have to check it out then! Ain't met a chili pepper yet that could best "Red-Hot Dick," y'know? *his chest swells with pride*
Maggey: *While Gumshoe's loud chuckles almost shake the couch itself, Maggey accidentally leans a little too close to him and loses balance. She lightly falls against Gumshoe, making a small startled noise into his chest.*
Gumshoe: W-whoa! *Gumshoe tries to catch her... with his chest, admittedly, but he gently puts his arms around her after she falls onto him* Uh... y-you okay, pal?
Maggey: *She nods against him. Her glasses are slightly askew, but besides that no harm done. Her voice is muffled when she speaks.* I'm fine, sir. Just a little clumsy.
Gumshoe: That's... well, yeah, but--but that's fine! You're clumsy because you're you...! *she's warm, and surprisingly small against him--and all of a sudden, Gumshoe finds his face red again but she doesn't seem like she's making any effort to get up*
Maggey: *Maggey remains there, waiting for Gumshoe to release her so she can sit up again, but so far he makes no move to let go of her. And, she thinks as she closes her eyes, it does feel pretty nice. She sighs, putting a little more weight onto him.* Because I what, sir?
Gumshoe: *Not only is she not trying to get up, but she seems to be actually leaning more against him--and so he hugs her just a little bit tighter* Because you're... just--well, you're Maggey, pal! It makes you you! It's... it's kinda cute!
Maggey: *She blushes a little. How was her being clumsy cute?* Oh...I've never heard that before, sir.
Gumshoe: Naw, it is! It really is, you're... real cute! In everything! *he all but blurts out, looking down at her where she's lying against his chest*
Maggey: *She smiles, still not moving from her spot against him.* Thank you, sir... No one has ever complimented my bad luck before.
Gumshoe: *he holds her a bit closer to him, his cheeks furiously red, because hell he's on a roll and why stop now?* I--I've told you how.... pretty you are, right? I mean, you're really... pretty, Maggey! *it's true; she's just--she's beautiful, and that perpetual smile and energy just makes her all the more attractive and...!*
Maggey: *Her blush deepens as her eyes snap open.* Ooh! Thank you, sir... *Her small arm trails upwards to her face, adjusting her glasses as best as she can against Gumshoe's chest.* That's very kind of you.
Gumshoe: No it's not! *he says quickly before pausing and coughing* Er, well, I mean it's true so it's not just me being kind or anything...!
Maggey: *Smiles wider. Her voice softens as she closes her eyes, resting her head on his chest now.* Thank you, sir.
Gumshoe: *Maybe it's the wine, maybe it's just her and he can't quite stop himself even though he's so nervous he might as well be shaking.... but he softly calls out to her, trying to see if she'll look up at him* Uh... uh hey, Maggey?
Maggey: *She opens her eyes and looks up to him.* Yes?
Gumshoe: *he takes her hand--it's so small--in his, and even though he's shaking a bit, he leans up, craning his neck down to slowly give her a very soft, very light kiss on the lips*
Maggey: *Though taken by surprise at first by the kiss, with the wine egging her on, Maggey returns the kiss very softly, her little hand giving his a small squeeze.*
Gumshoe: *She's not pushing him away. She's not pulling away, either--she's moving closer to him, and his heart leaps as she squeezes his hand, which he returns in turn, closing his eyes and pulling her a bit closer to him*
Maggey: *She lets out a small squeak against his lips at the sudden movement, thinking she is about to fall. Her hand tightens around his as she looks up again, right at him.*
Gumshoe: *he breaks off the kiss, worried for a moment that he's done something wrong and looking back at her*
Maggey: *She blinks watching him, a light red in her cheeks. With her lips still puckered, she leans into him again.*
Gumshoe:..! *It's hard to believe, but now she's the one kissing him, and his heart is starting to pound--he hadn't really expected any of this, but... but she's soft against him, and she's very warm and so are her lips and... well, he could stay like this forever, he thinks, holding her tightly*
Maggey: *Her free arm snakes upwards to hold onto his shoulder, just for extra support so she really doesn't fall. She really isn't quite sure what to think as she lets out a small giggle at the scrape of his stubble across her chin.*
Gumshoe: *she laughs, and Gumshoe could swear it was the sweetest sound he'd ever heard... he breaks off a bit for air and then moves back in to do it all over again*
Maggey: *Still giggling, she is entirely unaware of the other pair of eyes in the room that are watching them. After his nice nap under the kitchen table, Bear strides into the living room, looking as smug as a dog possibly can, and with a quick run and leap, he lands halfway onto the pair, tail wagging back and forth wildly. Maggey lets out a small shriek at the dog who is now attacking her...
Maggey:...with drool, and laughs again, louder this time as she tries to push Bear away and off of her.
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe is taken completely by surprise as a giant furry behemoth pounces on Maggey and him* Wh-whoa!! *for a moment he doesn't realize it's Bear, but after he does he almost chuckles--or rather he would if he weren't busy trying to help Maggey get the dog off the couch...!*
Maggey: *Finally able to stand up, with Bear prancing around her, Maggey turns to smile down at Gumshoe.* I think Bear wants to go for his evening walk now...
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe stands up beside her, still very red in the face* Oh hey! Uh, that'd make sense. He's got a ton of energy, it looks like! ...want me to come with you two?
Maggey: Sure! *She answers very quickly. Patting Bear on the head, she moves to her closet and begins to search for the dog's leash. She looks over her shoulder over to Gumshoe, smiling.* Maybe afterwards we could finish off that wine, sir! No reason to let it all go to waste.
Gumshoe: Right! That's a great idea! I mean, you wouldn't want to waste something like that...! *he looks into the closet's top shelves, and sure enough, finds what looks like Bear's leash* It's up here, pal! ...how'd it get all the way up here? *still, question aside, he reaches up and grabs the leash for her, handing it to Maggey*
Maggey: *She takes it and frowns, glancing up to the top shelf.* I have no idea, sir...
Gumshoe: So, uh... we should go! Before it gets too dark, I think.
Maggey: Alright, sir! *Bending over, she clips the leash to Bear's collar and then leads him towards the door.* Come on, Bear! *She opens it quickly and steps through the doorway before she turns, waiting in the apartment hallway for Gumshoe with Bear at her side.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe exits the apartment, reaching behind him to close the door--and as they wait in the elevator and head out into the fresh nighttime air, he can't help but reach out a little bit and take her hand in his*
Maggey: *Sunday evening finally arrives and even though Maggey has had this evening with Gumshoe planned out for the last few days, she can't help but smooth down her skirt nervously every few moments as she bustles around her apartment. With Bear following at her feet, she peeks into her kitchen, just to make sure that dinner is completely ready for when her guest arrives. Smiling a bit easier, Maggey...
Maggey:...moves back into her living room, sitting down on her sofa while she waits. Bear sets his head in her lap and looks up at her, smiling. She reaches down to scratch him behind his ears.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe coughs into his fist, examining his reflection in the grimey mirror surface of the elevator... he's not dressed *much* better than usual, but he's got a new black tie, his shirt has been (somehow) freshly pressed, and it looks like he's washed his trademark trenchcoat once or twice... he's carrying a slightly limp bouquet of flowers that look rather second-hand.
Gumshoe: Stepping out of the elevator, he swallows, runs a hand through his hair again, and then raps on Maggey's door with thick, calloused knuckles*
Maggey: *Hearing the knocking at the door, Maggey shoots up off the couch as Bear rushes over to the door, his tail wagging wildly at the prospect of a new visitor. Smoothing down her white blouse one more time, she smiles wide before walking over to the door and opening it.*
Gumshoe: *she opens the door; and all Gumshoe can think is that she looks real pretty all dressed up like that, and he blushes a bit, stammering over his words* H-hey there, pa--Maggey! These are... *he thrusts the flowers out in her general direction* These are for you! You look... you look real great!
Maggey: Hello Detective Gumshoe! *Taking the limp flowers, she smiles even wider.* WOW! Flowers for me, sir? That's so nice of you! Please come right on in! *She takes a few steps backwards to move Bear out of the way to allow the larger man through the door.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe steps through the door, petting Bear on the head and scratching behind his ears as he looks around, giving a low whistle* Wow, you really cleaned up the place! And... hey, that smells great! *he says, inhaling deeply--and he's telling the truth, for the aroma wafting out of the kitchen is awfully tantalizing*
Maggey: *Closing the door behind them, Maggey moves straight to the kitchen to look for a vase to throw the flowers into.* Well thanks, sir! I worked really hard at making a wonderful dinner tonight! *Spotting a cup, she grabs it and after filling it partially with water, she drops the flowers in, looking both grateful and impressed.* There! *Setting the cup on her kitchen counter, she takes a...
Maggey: …step back, admiring them.* What beautiful flowers! They really brighten up the room. *She turns to him.* Don't you think, sir?
Gumshoe: Oh yeah! They--they look great! You look great, pal! ...did I say that already? *he reaches up to scratch at his head, looking a bit sheepish* But--but the flowers look really swell!
Maggey: *Smiles.* You look really good too, sir! Is that a new coat? Oh! *Her eyes widen suddenly.* I forgot to ask for your coat! I'm so sorry, Detective!
Gumshoe: *he turns slightly red* Nah, it's the same old coat--I just had it cleaned! *he shakes his head* N-nah, it's fine! You don't have to take the coat! But... um, if you want, sure! You can take it! But it's no big deal, really!
Maggey: Whatever you want to do, sir! It's all up to you!
Gumshoe: *after a moment's consideration, he shrugs off the coat, throws it over his arm, and hands it to her proudly--since she sounded so *insistent* really...* Here.. here ya go!
Maggey: *Taking the coat, Maggey straightens up and salutes Gumshoe quickly before moving to the closet next to the front door. Opening the door and pulling out a stray clothes hanger, she continues to smile.* Would you like to take a seat at the table, sir? I'll be sure to grab the food for us in just a second! *Successfully hanging the heavy jacket in the closet, she shuts the door and wanders back...
Maggey:...into the kitchen.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe can't help but go a bit red in the face as Maggey scurries around, because she's so damn cute and.. well, she's obviously trying so hard* Sure! I'll just... I'll take a seat down here! *he takes a big whiff of the tantalizing food, still kind of finding it hard to comprehend that she's going through this all for him--and he sits down at the table, waiting for her*
Maggey: *After Gumshoe sits down, Maggey grabs the plate of baked potatoes in one hand and the plate of steaks in the other. She moves towards the table slowly, but steadily, her days working at Tres Bien and The Rusty Gust really improving her balance. She makes it to the table with the plates and food all in one piece, and after setting them down in the empty middle of the table, she takes a seat.*
Maggey: There we go, sir! I hope you enjoy it! I worked extra hard on making this the best dinner ever!
Gumshoe: *For a second, Gumshoe almost looks like he's going to burst into tears. The food smells so good and she just looks so happy and proud of herself, having made such a delicious-looking dinner* It... w-wow Maggey... That looks great, pal!
Maggey: *She moves the plate of steaks an inch closer to him.* Please, sir! Go ahead and dig in! *She waits eagerly, watching him.*
Gumshoe: *he pauses, not wanting to ruin the dinner by being sloppy--though it'll probably happen anyway--but he's not sure whether the napkin goes in his lap or tucked into his shirt. After a few moments of consideration, he decides to tuck it into his shirt instead. After all, his pants are dark; they're harder to notice stains on! However, before digging in, he hesitates* Nah, pal... y-you first!
I mean, you made it and all...
Maggey: But I made it for you, sir! I insist! *Still smiling, she sets her open napkin on her lap, waiting for him.*
Gumshoe: Oh! Well, um...! *at that, Gumshoe tries to caaaarefuly cut a piece of steak without spraying juice all over himself, and he caaaaaarefully spears it with a fork and puts it into his mouth--It's absolutely delicious... though maybe a bit overcooked but he can overlook it, because even he can tell it was made with tender care!*
Gumshoe: W...wow! This is... this is delicious...!!
Maggey: *Practically beaming from joy, Maggey giggles before reaching for the open bottle of wine.* Here! Let me pour you some, sir! The cashier at the store told me this was a really good brand! I’ve never had wine this nice before!
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe's trying his best not to openly gape--the last time he's even seen wine with that fancy a label was at Mr. Edgeworth's house, and even then he just stuck to the beer* Sure! Go right ahead...! I'd love some! *he's too afraid to even think about how much it cost*
Maggey: *Maggey stays silent for a moment, concentrating on not spilling the expensive wine as she pours it into Gumshoe's glass. A few small drops spill onto the table, but it is mostly a success, which makes the woman practically beam as she glances up to him.*
Gumshoe: *he looks at her with an uncontrollable goofy grin on his face, waiting for her to pour herself a glass too!*
Maggey: *She continues holding onto the bottle and until she finally realizes that she still hasn't poured a glass for herself. Letting out a small laugh, she pours a glass for herself (this time not spilling anything) before she sets the bottle back onto the table. She reaches for her glass and holds it up towards Gumshoe. She smiles.* Cheers?
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe raises his glass, almost spilling it--but not!--and then keeps grinning at her, dumbstruck* Cheers, pal--I mean, Maggey!
Maggey: Cheers, sir! *She moves her glass forward carefully, tapping Gumshoe's before she takes a small sip of the wine. Her eyes widen at the taste- it is very sweet- but she decides that the aftertaste is more than enjoyable enough as she takes another drink.* Mmm. *She sets her glass down on the table.* That's really good!
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe clinks his glass against hers before sipping it himself, and he only spills a single drop as he drinks, so he's pretty pleased about that! She wasn't mistaken, either--this wine is great stuff, even for someone who doesn't usually drink it!* No kiddin'! That's pretty darn good wine!
Maggey: *Smiles.* I'm glad I picked out the right kind, sir! I never buy wine so I really wasn't sure, but if we ever have dinner together again I'll try to get the same kind again!
Gumshoe: Aw no, you don't have to do that, pal! Really! *he scratches at his head, looking sheepish* I mean, if it's as expensive as you said...! I'd just be fine with--well, you don't have to get anything at all for me! Really, I mean it!
Maggey: *Sliding the plate of baked potatoes over to him, she continues to smile.* We'll see then, sir! *She waits for him to take the plate before she takes the one full of steaks, stabbing at one of the pieces of meat with her fork.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe spears a whole baked potato with his fork before remembering where he is, and then tries to cut it open neatly--it's warm, and buttery, and well maybe the skin is a bit crispy but he likes it like that! It's just as good as the steak, and he can't believe that she went to all this trouble just for him*
Maggey: *After Gumshoe takes one, Maggey grabs a potato, setting it on her plate next to the steak. She picks up her knife before she pauses for a second. Where were her manners? Taking her napkin, she sets it politely onto her lap, before she digs into her food eagerly.*
Gumshoe: *They eat, and Gumshoe keeps sneaking quick glances up at Maggey while he does--there's just something so cute about how she cuts her steak, he can't help it!--but he can't quite bring himself to say anything for a good long while... he swallows another glass of wine, finally getting up the nerve* So! Uh... how was your day...!
Maggey: *She swallows her last piece of steak before looking up to her guest. She pauses, having to actually think about her day.* I think it was alright, sir. I slept in a bit after working late at the bar last night and then took Bear for a nice, long walk around the neighborhood. Then I went out to buy groceries and then I made dinner! *Though it seems like a very plain, even boring day, the smile...
Maggey:...never leaves her face.* It was a really good day, sir!
Gumshoe: Sounds like fun! *he says with complete and total honesty* Bear looks like he's doing real good, pal! Does he still pull you off your feet sometimes?
Maggey: *Maggey taps Bear, who is laying on the floor next to her, with her foot.* Sometimes, but he really is getting better! Yesterday he saw a cat, sir, and he only pulled me for about two blocks! It's a real improvement! *Bear glances up to her, sees that she isn't giving him steak, and then goes back to snoozing.* What about you, sir? How was your day?
Gumshoe: *he pauses in thought* Well, uh...! I didn't really do much, so... I just got up, got dressed, and... had lunch! *he winces a bit* It ain't all that exciting, really. But now I'm here with you! So it's been a great day for me!
Maggey: *Setting down her knife and fork on her empty plate, she reaches for the wine glass again. After taking a much larger drink than before, she nods.* But that is only because you have a day off! I mean, being a detective is one of the coolest and most exciting professions ever! Don't you think so, sir?
Gumshoe: Oh yeah, it's great! *Gumshoe can't help but swell with pride; he really does love what he does* You're solving crimes and tracking down bad guys all day--there's really no more rewarding job in the world, pal! Well, sometimes when you screw it up it can be a bit of a bummer, but... I wouldn't trade it for the world, anyway!
Maggey: *She holds her glass in one hand, saluting him with the other.* I miss being on the force with you, sir! It was always so great!
Gumshoe: Well... well yeah, that was great! *he turns a bit red* Y'know, if you ever wanted to get back on the force, I'm sure they'd let you... they'd let you go through training again if you wanted! Really, I bet they would!
Maggey: *Her smile falters slightly as her eyes widen.* R-Really, sir? But I was fired... *A frown crosses her face, but she continues to look Gumshoe straight in the eyes.*
Gumshoe: *his shoulders slump a bit; Gumshoe is very aware that she probably still feels awful about these events* Well... they fired you because they thought that you. Well, that you had... b-but you were found innocent, so there wouldn't be a problem...!
Maggey: *As she looks down to her empty plate, Maggey is silent for a few long moments, which is more quiet than anyone else has ever seen her. She appears to be thinking very deeply about the chance of getting her badge back. It is an exciting prospect and one that she would, in any other part of her life, be very eager to persue. Now, however...*
Maggey: That's...That sounds great, Detective Gumshoe, but...I don't know if I could.
Gumshoe: *He's filled with a growing sense of horror at her sudden quiet, a feeling that he's said and done something terrible, but he doesn't know what he could say to make it better--if, in fact, he could say anything at all* Er... I-I'm sure you could! You'd be great! You'd be really fantastic...!
Maggey: No! *She blurts out suddenly, before a small flush appears on her cheeks.* I mean, I could, sir, but I can't. I can't leave Mr. Marshall all alone...
Gumshoe: Oh! R-right! I gotcha! *Gumshoe nods, feeling a little sigh of relief--he'd forgotten about the bar and Jake for a moment, and he hadn't screwed it up--she was just being herself! Loyal, sweet, caring Maggey... that was why!* That's... that's really nice of you, pal!
Maggey: *There is a hint of her regular smile as she nods eagerly.* Of course, sir! I couldn't just leave him behind after everything he's done for me! You wouldn't believe how much he taught me and how kind he is whenever my bad luck gets in the way! *She smiles.* And someone has to stay around and watch out for him too, sir!
Gumshoe: *he smiles at her again, less embarrassed than his usual bashful grin* Right! You gotta... you gotta make sure ol' Marshall's doing good for himself! He's relying on you, y'know!
Maggey: Alright, sir! *Salutes him again, suddenly feeling full of her usual never-ending supply of energy.* And you have to keep catching the bad guys!
Gumshoe: Of course! I'll do my best and you do yours!
Maggey: *Beaming, she takes her glass and takes a final drink, draining her second glass of wine.* That was the best dinner I've had in a long time, sir. Thank you for joining me. Did you get enough?
Gumshoe: N-no, thank you! You're the one who made it! It was real delicious, lemme tell you that! *Gumshoe rubs his stomach appreciatively--for the first time in a very long while that he can remember, he actually feels full* That was... it was really great! *he's working on his third glass, and there's still half a bottle left over* I can, uh, help with the dishes if you want!
Maggey: *She shakes her head.* That's alright, sir. I'll just save them for later. Would you like to move to the living room?
Gumshoe: Oh, uh, okay! That'd be fine! If you're sure, pal!
Maggey: *Maggey stands up, nearly tripping over the large dog at her feet, but she manages to catch herself first. Then, stepping over Bear, she grins wide at Gumshoe. Though she hasn't had too much of the wine, she is already feeling the affects.* This way, sir!
Gumshoe: *he's had a bit more, and he's bigger, but he's starting to feel it a bit too as he gets up, still holding his latest glass, and follows her into the living room* Boy, that was a great dinner! You really learned how to cook at that saloon of yours!
Maggey: *She giggles before plopping down onto her small couch.* We actually have a cook that does all of that for us. I just serve the customers and keep things clean!
Gumshoe: *he sits down on the couch beside her, putting his glass down on a handy nearby table* Really? Wow, that's fancy! I bet Marshall's really glad to have you around!
Maggey: I sure hope so! *She twists her torso to look him fully in the face, smiling. She prefers to speak to people face-to-face.* I really enjoy it there.
Gumshoe: Well... like, cowboy people! Like Marshall!
Maggey: Oh! Cowboys? *She smiles again.* We get them all the time! ...Well, we have two of them coming in almost every night.
Gumshoe: *He blinks* Really? What are they like?
Maggey: Well, they are pretty noisy and usually leave a pretty big mess, but they are always really polite and order a lot! Mr. Marshall loves customers who order a lot!
Gumshoe: Well, if they pay for it, I would too, if I were him! It just makes sense, y'know?
Maggey: *Nods.* Of course, sir. You should really come in and visit sometime! Mr. Marshall and I would love to have you!
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe looks sheepish again, reaching up to scratch right above his ear* W-well, I dunno if I could actually afford it, pal! It's probably expensive....!
Maggey: I'd buy you something, sir! I would love to. *She suddenly looks very excited.* Oh! And you could try some of Mr. Marshall's famous chili!
Gumshoe: Hey, chili? I love chili! I used to eat it all the time in school at the cafeteria! I loved spicy food so much that they started to call me "Red-Hot Dick," pal! *he chuckles in nostalgia* Is it spicy?
Maggey: Spicy? *She leans in a little closer, looking up at him, grinning* The spiciest, sir.
Gumshoe: *he raises an eyebrow, chuckling* Oho ho ho?! Really? Well I'll just have to check it out then! Ain't met a chili pepper yet that could best "Red-Hot Dick," y'know? *his chest swells with pride*
Maggey: *While Gumshoe's loud chuckles almost shake the couch itself, Maggey accidentally leans a little too close to him and loses balance. She lightly falls against Gumshoe, making a small startled noise into his chest.*
Gumshoe: W-whoa! *Gumshoe tries to catch her... with his chest, admittedly, but he gently puts his arms around her after she falls onto him* Uh... y-you okay, pal?
Maggey: *She nods against him. Her glasses are slightly askew, but besides that no harm done. Her voice is muffled when she speaks.* I'm fine, sir. Just a little clumsy.
Gumshoe: That's... well, yeah, but--but that's fine! You're clumsy because you're you...! *she's warm, and surprisingly small against him--and all of a sudden, Gumshoe finds his face red again but she doesn't seem like she's making any effort to get up*
Maggey: *Maggey remains there, waiting for Gumshoe to release her so she can sit up again, but so far he makes no move to let go of her. And, she thinks as she closes her eyes, it does feel pretty nice. She sighs, putting a little more weight onto him.* Because I what, sir?
Gumshoe: *Not only is she not trying to get up, but she seems to be actually leaning more against him--and so he hugs her just a little bit tighter* Because you're... just--well, you're Maggey, pal! It makes you you! It's... it's kinda cute!
Maggey: *She blushes a little. How was her being clumsy cute?* Oh...I've never heard that before, sir.
Gumshoe: Naw, it is! It really is, you're... real cute! In everything! *he all but blurts out, looking down at her where she's lying against his chest*
Maggey: *She smiles, still not moving from her spot against him.* Thank you, sir... No one has ever complimented my bad luck before.
Gumshoe: *he holds her a bit closer to him, his cheeks furiously red, because hell he's on a roll and why stop now?* I--I've told you how.... pretty you are, right? I mean, you're really... pretty, Maggey! *it's true; she's just--she's beautiful, and that perpetual smile and energy just makes her all the more attractive and...!*
Maggey: *Her blush deepens as her eyes snap open.* Ooh! Thank you, sir... *Her small arm trails upwards to her face, adjusting her glasses as best as she can against Gumshoe's chest.* That's very kind of you.
Gumshoe: No it's not! *he says quickly before pausing and coughing* Er, well, I mean it's true so it's not just me being kind or anything...!
Maggey: *Smiles wider. Her voice softens as she closes her eyes, resting her head on his chest now.* Thank you, sir.
Gumshoe: *Maybe it's the wine, maybe it's just her and he can't quite stop himself even though he's so nervous he might as well be shaking.... but he softly calls out to her, trying to see if she'll look up at him* Uh... uh hey, Maggey?
Maggey: *She opens her eyes and looks up to him.* Yes?
Gumshoe: *he takes her hand--it's so small--in his, and even though he's shaking a bit, he leans up, craning his neck down to slowly give her a very soft, very light kiss on the lips*
Maggey: *Though taken by surprise at first by the kiss, with the wine egging her on, Maggey returns the kiss very softly, her little hand giving his a small squeeze.*
Gumshoe: *She's not pushing him away. She's not pulling away, either--she's moving closer to him, and his heart leaps as she squeezes his hand, which he returns in turn, closing his eyes and pulling her a bit closer to him*
Maggey: *She lets out a small squeak against his lips at the sudden movement, thinking she is about to fall. Her hand tightens around his as she looks up again, right at him.*
Gumshoe: *he breaks off the kiss, worried for a moment that he's done something wrong and looking back at her*
Maggey: *She blinks watching him, a light red in her cheeks. With her lips still puckered, she leans into him again.*
Gumshoe:..! *It's hard to believe, but now she's the one kissing him, and his heart is starting to pound--he hadn't really expected any of this, but... but she's soft against him, and she's very warm and so are her lips and... well, he could stay like this forever, he thinks, holding her tightly*
Maggey: *Her free arm snakes upwards to hold onto his shoulder, just for extra support so she really doesn't fall. She really isn't quite sure what to think as she lets out a small giggle at the scrape of his stubble across her chin.*
Gumshoe: *she laughs, and Gumshoe could swear it was the sweetest sound he'd ever heard... he breaks off a bit for air and then moves back in to do it all over again*
Maggey: *Still giggling, she is entirely unaware of the other pair of eyes in the room that are watching them. After his nice nap under the kitchen table, Bear strides into the living room, looking as smug as a dog possibly can, and with a quick run and leap, he lands halfway onto the pair, tail wagging back and forth wildly. Maggey lets out a small shriek at the dog who is now attacking her...
Maggey:...with drool, and laughs again, louder this time as she tries to push Bear away and off of her.
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe is taken completely by surprise as a giant furry behemoth pounces on Maggey and him* Wh-whoa!! *for a moment he doesn't realize it's Bear, but after he does he almost chuckles--or rather he would if he weren't busy trying to help Maggey get the dog off the couch...!*
Maggey: *Finally able to stand up, with Bear prancing around her, Maggey turns to smile down at Gumshoe.* I think Bear wants to go for his evening walk now...
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe stands up beside her, still very red in the face* Oh hey! Uh, that'd make sense. He's got a ton of energy, it looks like! ...want me to come with you two?
Maggey: Sure! *She answers very quickly. Patting Bear on the head, she moves to her closet and begins to search for the dog's leash. She looks over her shoulder over to Gumshoe, smiling.* Maybe afterwards we could finish off that wine, sir! No reason to let it all go to waste.
Gumshoe: Right! That's a great idea! I mean, you wouldn't want to waste something like that...! *he looks into the closet's top shelves, and sure enough, finds what looks like Bear's leash* It's up here, pal! ...how'd it get all the way up here? *still, question aside, he reaches up and grabs the leash for her, handing it to Maggey*
Maggey: *She takes it and frowns, glancing up to the top shelf.* I have no idea, sir...
Gumshoe: So, uh... we should go! Before it gets too dark, I think.
Maggey: Alright, sir! *Bending over, she clips the leash to Bear's collar and then leads him towards the door.* Come on, Bear! *She opens it quickly and steps through the doorway before she turns, waiting in the apartment hallway for Gumshoe with Bear at her side.*
Gumshoe: *Gumshoe exits the apartment, reaching behind him to close the door--and as they wait in the elevator and head out into the fresh nighttime air, he can't help but reach out a little bit and take her hand in his*